Affordable housing officially open in Leominster

A new development of 36 properties in Leominster, built by The Wrekin Housing Trust, has been officially opened by Councillor Brian Wilcox, Chairman of Herefordshire Council.

The Wrekin Housing Trust is a preferred partner of Herefordshire Council and the two organisations have been working together to deliver much needed affordable housing in Herefordshire.

The development, located on Laundry Lane, consists of flats and houses for shared ownership, affordable rent and market rent, and the new estate has helped contribute to the supply of affordable housing in the area.

Among the new residents is Rachel Mellings, who, thanks to the shared housing scheme, has been able to buy her first property and get on the housing ladder.

Rachel said: “This is a brilliant scheme that really helps first time buyers. I am overjoyed with my new home, the standard of the finishing touches, such as the tiles and carpet, are excellent. Everything was thoroughly thought through and I would highly recommend the shared ownership scheme and The Wrekin Housing Trust to everyone. I look forward to spending many years in my new home.”

Chairman of the Council, Councillor Wilcox, said: “I was delighted to formally open this development, which not only provides much needed housing for local people, but the development itself has already made a positive contribution to the local economy. The economic impact of the entire development includes £8.5million into the wider economy and 83 jobs, including four apprenticeships.”

David Garratt, Development Manager, at The Wrekin Housing Trust, said: “We really appreciate Councillor Wilcox taking time out of his busy schedule to formally open the site.

“Initial work on this project goes back to 2013, so it’s great to see the estate finally completed. Also, now that all the properties are occupied, a real sense of community has been created.”

As with many other parts of the country, there is a lack of affordable housing in Herefordshire. The National Housing Federation reports that the average house price in the county is £234,271, while the average annual income is £23,135. In the rental market, the average monthly rent for a private property in Herefordshire is £597. This means many people are being priced out of home ownership or finding a good quality home for an affordable rent. Affordable and shared housing schemes help make renting more affordable and give people a chance to get on the housing ladder.